K: Keep an emergency plan. Despite all of the above, incidents of underage drinking still occur. Don’t naïvely assume that your children will avoid all social settings that involve alcohol. Come up with a code word they can say or text to you that will let you know they are in a situation where they are uncomfortable. That word is your cue to get them out of there.

If you have questions about talking with your kids, LICADD can help. Call (516) 747-2606 for free and confidential assistance.